Doerak

Handler: Joe Oberding
Breed: Malinois
Department: Henderson Police Department

As Doerak continues to age, his mobility and the functionality of his hips and hind quarters have continued to diminish. So, in trying to keep him as healthy and as active as long as possible, we’ve transitioned away from any running or impact based training and exercise these past several months. We’ve always included ‘hunt’ based activities, such as tracking and article searching, as part of his exercise routine to keep his brain engaged with problem solving behaviors and to increase respiratory and sniff rate through hunt based activity in lieu of running. However, at this stage of his life, ‘hunt games’ are now the staple for keeping him healthy and active… well that and the periodic, non-impact, stationary, bite session here and there, to keep our boy happy!!!

I wish Doerak would allow others, such as my wife, to spend more time in direct contact with him, but unfortunately he still has no real desire to be handled or manipulated by anyone other than me. Fortunately, I’m retired as well, so I’m able to spend a considerable amount of time with him, and he’s gotten to a point where he actually ‘relaxes’ and appears to enjoy just hanging out with me and being a pup!!!

My sincere appreciation to MARK-9 and its supporters for being there for us and for the help in softening the financial blow of caring for a retired working K9!!!

Update 2025: Unfortunately, we are at a point where getting him some exercise in the back yard a few times a day and just hanging out w/him and relaxing are the extent our activities. His body just can’t keep up w/his brain and drive any more, and it’s tough to watch the deterioration occur. But, we’re grateful for the time we are getting to spend with him, and doing our best to ensure he’s happy and feels loved and cared for each day!